Ah, the Golden Gate Bridge. What a beautiful piece of architecture!

History

The Golden Gate Bridge was constructed over the Golden Gate Strait, which is where the Pacific Ocean meets the San Francisco Bay. Back in the early 1930's, this area was known to have a high traffic of ships that brought in goods and transported people between San Francisco, Marin, and various parts of the Bay Area. Because the Bay was so busy, the government did not agree with the construction of the bridge. Even the public didn't want the bridge erected because the original design was very expensive and very ugly.

After a few more drafts on the design, more promotion, and a boycott on the ferry services, the Golden Gate Bridge began construction in 1933. On May 27, 1937, a ceremonial celebration was held and the bridge was open to pedestrians, bikers, and skaters to cross. By the next day, vehicles were allowed to make their commute to and from San Francisco and Marin. People were excited for this new change and it caused the celebration to get so out of hand, that a riot broke out with the San Francisco Police Department - but that didn't stop people from holding "The Fiesta" for the next following weeks! Needless to say, this was the year in which

Quick Facts

From 1937 - 1964, the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge and connected State Route 1 and U.S. Highway 101. Today, the bridge holds the record for the United States' second longest suspension bridge main span at 4,200 feet. The Golden Gate Bridge also has reversible lanes which may be manually adjusted depending on the amount of traffic northbound and/or southbound.

Toll Increase

Yesterday, the toll to cross the bridge has increased by $1.00. Commuters paying by cash will now be paying $6.00 and commuters using Fastrak will now be paying $5.00. Please keep in mind that this is for the southbound lanes from Marin to San Francisco. The northbound lanes from San Francisco to Marin are still toll-free. Also excluded in this price-hike are people who carpool (in a vehicle of 3 or more, motorcycles, and busses) between 5:00am - 9:00am and 4:00pm - 6:00pm from Monday through Friday and excluding holidays.

So why was there even an increase? Toll revenues are going to help the $90 million budget deficit and will also go towards the operation and maintenance of the bridge. Even though it'll be a little tougher for daily commuters, it may help to know that the hike went up to $6.00 instead of the initial $7.00 proposal.